Kaju Barfi – 10 Best Varieties & Recipes You Must Try
Kaju Barfi, also known as Kaju Katli, is one of the most beloved and iconic Indian sweets. Made with cashew nuts, sugar, and ghee, this rich and decadent treat is perfect for festive occasions, gifting, or simply indulging in a luxurious dessert. In this article, we explore the 10 best varieties of Kaju Barfi and provide detailed recipes you can try at home. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this mouthwatering mithai!

1. Classic Kaju Barfi
The traditional Kaju Barfi remains a timeless favorite. This version is made by grinding cashews into a fine powder, mixing them with sugar syrup, and cooking the mixture until it forms a soft dough. Once cooled, the dough is rolled and cut into signature diamond shapes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew nuts (powdered)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Blend cashew nuts into a fine powder without over-grinding.
- Prepare a sugar syrup by boiling sugar and water until it reaches a one-string consistency.
- Add the powdered cashews and ghee to the syrup and cook on low heat.
- Stir continuously until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
- Roll the dough and cut it into diamonds once it cools.
2. Saffron Kaju Barfi
Enhance the flavor and aroma of the classic recipe by adding a generous pinch of saffron strands. The saffron not only adds a golden hue but also imparts a subtle, floral taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- Few strands of saffron
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Soak saffron strands in warm water and add them to the sugar syrup while it cooks.
- Follow the same steps as the classic Kaju Barfi recipe, ensuring the saffron is well mixed.
3. Chocolate Kaju Barfi
For chocolate lovers, Chocolate Kaju Barfi offers a delightful fusion of flavors. A layer of rich cocoa adds a modern twist to the traditional sweet.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Prepare the cashew dough as in the classic recipe.
- Once the dough is ready, divide it into two parts.
- Mix cocoa powder into one part and layer it over the plain dough.
- Roll and cut as desired.
4. Kesar Pista Kaju Barfi
Combining the goodness of saffron, pistachios, and cashews, this variety is rich in both taste and presentation. The green pistachios add a beautiful contrast to the golden saffron-infused barfi.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp pistachios (chopped)
- Few strands of saffron
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Follow the steps for Saffron Kaju Barfi.
- Once rolled, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top before cutting.
5. Rose-Flavored Kaju Barfi
Adding rose essence to the barfi creates an aromatic and visually appealing sweet that’s perfect for gifting.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2-3 drops of rose essence
- Edible rose petals (optional)
Recipe:
- Add rose essence to the sugar syrup before mixing in the cashew powder.
- Garnish with edible rose petals after rolling the dough.
6. Mango Kaju Barfi
A seasonal favorite, Mango Kaju Barfi combines the tropical sweetness of mango with the nutty richness of cashews.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- ¾ cup mango puree
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Mix mango puree with sugar and water to create the syrup.
- Follow the same steps as the classic recipe.
7. Dry Fruit Kaju Barfi
Packed with the goodness of almonds, pistachios, and walnuts, this variety is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup mixed dry fruits (chopped)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Prepare the classic Kaju Barfi dough.
- Mix in the chopped dry fruits before rolling.
8. Coconut Kaju Barfi
Adding shredded coconut gives this version a unique texture and taste. Coconut lovers will adore this tropical twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Add shredded coconut to the sugar syrup before mixing in the cashew powder.
9. Paneer Kaju Barfi
Combining the creaminess of paneer with the nuttiness of cashews, Paneer Kaju Barfi is an indulgent and creamy dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cashew powder
- 1 cup paneer (grated)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Cook paneer with sugar syrup before adding cashew powder.
- Stir until a smooth dough forms.
10. Almond Kaju Barfi
A delightful blend of almonds and cashews, this barfi is both flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cashew powder
- 1 cup almond powder
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp ghee
Recipe:
- Mix almond powder with cashew powder before adding to the sugar syrup.
- Follow the steps of the classic recipe.
FAQs
Q: How do I store this sweet delicacy?
A: Kaju Barfi can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated.
Q: Can I make Kaju Barfi without sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute sugar with jaggery or a sugar-free sweetener to make a healthier version.
Q: How can I achieve a smooth texture in this sweet treat?
A: Ensure that the cashews are finely powdered without releasing oil. Using a one-string consistency syrup also helps in achieving the perfect texture.